| Job Description: |
The PSREU is seeking to hire an Agricultural Assistant II to perform the following tasks
- Primary responsibility is performing year-round maintenance field operations involving turfgrass, ornamentals, and greenhouse areas including, but not limited to mowing, maintaining equipment, field preparation, planting, and harvesting of crops.
- Drives state vehicles including tractors, mowers, and utility vehicles in the performance of job duties. Secondary responsibility is maintenance, repair, and installation of irrigation systems for turfgrass, ornamental and greenhouse research.
- Responsible for maintaining equipment used in research operations, also general upkeep of grounds and buildings in work area Responsible for monitoring greenhouse complex multiple times throughout the day. Duties include inspection of controllers and other equipment, collection of environmental data, fertilizer and pesticide applications, and general upkeep of facility.
- Responsible for assisting research coordinator or faculty with data collection and recording harvest information on turf, ornamental, and greenhouse research projects. The incumbent is also responsible for making recommendations to research coordinators on improved production needs and methods.
- Performs other duties related to research as required and assigned by Research Coordinators and/or Farm Manager. Operation of state and farm vehicles in the performance of job duties. Assist with all other programs (Heavy Equipment, FEPP, Event Days, Safety and Training, etc.) managed by unit as needed.
- Performs other duties related to research crop production as required and assigned by research coordinators. Helps in catastrophic events around the state with emergency response for IFAS.
- Responsible for applying fertilizer and pesticides associated with turfgrass, ornamental, and greenhouse research. Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Valid Florida driver’s license, Florida Forklift certification, Florida Green Industries BMP Certification.
State of Florida Public Pesticide License with Turf and Ornamental, Soil and Greenhouse Fumigation endorsements. All licenses must be obtained within 6 months of hire.
Working conditions can be noisy, hot, and dusty at times. 90% of duties are performed in research field and shop areas. Some travel may be required. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. Job requires, standing, kneeling, bending, climbing, stooping, and walking.
Monday – Thursday, 10-hour days – 7:00 am to 5:30 pm totaling 40 hours a week. Periodic overtime when required to meet emergencies and flexible hours with potential overnight stays. Employee may be called in for freeze protection weekend/emergency response/holiday/ greenhouse checks.
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| Preferred Qualifications: |
Skilled knowledge of the management and cultural practices concerning turf grass, ornamentals, and greenhouse operations.
Knowledge and ability to obtain and maintain a State of Florida Public Pesticide License with Turf and Ornamental, and Soil and Greenhouse Fumigation endorsements.
Knowledge of pesticide and fertilizer handling, mixing, and application equipment and the ability to calibrate application equipment.
Knowledge and ability to read data and maintain records.
Knowledge and ability to perform arithmetical calculations.
Assisting Field Techs and Grad Students with research tests.
Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments.
Ability to pay attention to details.
Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with others.
Must be an effective communicator using both written and verbal methods.
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| Special Instructions to Applicants: |
In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.
This position is eligible for Veteran’s preference. If you are claiming Veteran’s preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration. See our Veteran's Preference Page for more specific information.
Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.
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